MMLG vs VTI
First Trust Multi-Manager Large Growth ETF vs Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF
Quick Verdict
VTI has a lower expense ratio. VTI delivered stronger 1-year returns. VTI offers more diversification with 3,543 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | MMLG | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.85% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $95M | $666.9B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.00% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 75 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +5.70% | +13.86% | |
| 1Y Return | +15.59% | +20.74% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +21.54% | +21.66% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +8.42% | +11.90% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 21.3% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -46.0% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | First Trust Portfolios (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jul 20, 2020 | May 24, 2001 |
MMLG vs VTI Performance
First Trust Multi-Manager Large Growth ETF (MMLG) is a ETF from First Trust Portfolios (US) and Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year MMLG returned +15.59% while VTI returned +20.74%. Year to date, MMLG is up 5.70% versus a gain of 13.86% for VTI.
Over three years, MMLG compounded at +21.54% per year against +21.66% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are +8.42% and +11.90% respectively. Across the full 6-year window we track, MMLG has the edge at +11.29% annualized vs +8.11%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
MMLG has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 21.3% compared with 15.3% for VTI. Lower volatility generally means a smoother ride, though it often comes with lower long-run returns.
The deepest peak-to-trough decline in our data was -46.0% for MMLG and -56.6% for VTI. Drawdown depth is worth weighing if you expect to sell during market stress rather than ride it out.
The two funds' monthly returns correlate at 0.91. They move almost in lockstep, so holding both mostly duplicates the same exposure.
Fees and Cost Over Time
MMLG charges 0.85% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $85 vs $3 annually, a gap of $82 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, MMLG currently yields 0.00% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
MMLG and VTI share 69 holdings out of 2794 unique holdings combined, representing a 38.7% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, MMLG or VTI?
MMLG has an expense ratio of 0.85% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $82 per year of difference.
Which performed better, MMLG or VTI?
Over the past year MMLG returned +15.59% vs +20.74% for VTI, so VTI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (6 years), MMLG annualized +11.29% vs +8.11% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, MMLG or VTI?
MMLG has been the more volatile fund at 21.3% annualized versus 15.3% for VTI. Worst drawdown: MMLG -46.0% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both MMLG and VTI?
MMLG and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.91, so they move almost identically. Holding both adds little diversification - most investors pick one, usually on fees or the specific index tracked.
What is the holdings overlap between MMLG and VTI?
MMLG and VTI share 69 common holdings with a 38.7% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2794 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, MMLG or VTI?
MMLG yields 0.00% while VTI yields 1.07%, so VTI currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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